A planned housing and service center for homeless veterans in Longview got another boost Wednesday with U.S. Sen. Patty Murray securing $500,000 for the project. That’s on top of the $200,000 U.S. Rep. Brian Baird also is seeking for a total of $700,000 — or one third of the total projected cost.

Murray added the money into the Senate’s transportation, housing and development budget in subcommittee. The money still must work its way through the full Senate and be reconciled with the House spending bill. There are no guarantees until the president approves the budget in the fall, but Murray is committed to the project, said spokesman Eli Zupnick.

“Sen. Murray is a senior member of the appropriations committee and she considers this a priority for the region,” Zupnick said. “She fought to put it in this bill and she’ll keep pushing for it.”

“With new service members returning home every day and the economy sputtering, we must step up our efforts to provide all veterans with housing and the dignity that comes with it,” Murray said in a statement.

Longview Housing Authority officials said they were thrilled when they got the news Wednesday.

“The day keeps getting better by the minute,” said Chris Pegg, the housing authority’s executive director. “We believe everyone should have the opportunity to live in a safe, decent and affordable home, particularly our veterans who have sacrificed so much.”

The money will be used to renovate the Stratford Arms Building on Commerce Avenue in Longview, including 20 studio apartments that will house up to 24 homeless veterans. (Two of the apartments are double occupancy). The housing authority already owns the building.

Veterans must qualify for Veteran’s Administration programs and must agree to check in with case managers daily and remain drug and alcohol free to live in the apartments. The renovations also will provide a veterans service center.

The lower two floors will remain the housing authority offices, including the veteran support case managers. Retail space also will be available at the corner of Hemlock and Commerce streets.

The building was built in 1926 and needs repairs and renovations, including new fire sprinklers as well as structural upgrades to the building such as new windows and certification it can withstand earthquakes. The building also must be modified to be more handicapped accessible and an elevator will be added. Some apartment kitchens and common area floors also need upgrades. Officials plan to maintain the historic look and integrity of the building, according to a summary of the project.

The work is expected to cost about $ 2 million. The earliest the renovation could begin is late 2010, according to Pegg.